Tides of Itharion world illustration - Pirate theme
Pirate

Tides of Itharion

N
Nelgea

a narrative-driven fantasy game blending exploration, diplomacy, and action.


Author's Note: Itharion is an archipelago of tropical beauty and ancient wonder, where islands range from towering volcanic peaks to vibrant coral reefs. Its people live in harmony with the ocean, guided by the Cycle of Tides, a philosophy that views life as an eternal rhythm of highs and lows. The sea is both life-giver and destroyer, harboring untold riches and hidden dangers, from krakens to ancient gods buried in the Abyss Below. Itharion’s unity is maintained by the Tidebound Council, but rivalries between islands threaten to unravel their fragile peace. Meanwhile, strange occurrences—dying coral, shipwrecks with glowing relics, and ominous storms—suggest the sea is stirring in ways unseen for centuries. I wanted to create a world that feels alive—where the ocean isn’t just a setting but a character, where choices ripple outward like waves, and where exploration is both wondrous and dangerous. Itharion blends the beauty of tropical paradise with the mystery of deep waters, inviting players to immerse themselves in a story that flows like the tides: ever-changing, beautiful, and full of secrets waiting to be uncovered.
Played1 times
Cloned1 times
Created
80 days ago
Last Updated
63 days ago
VisibilityPublic
Captain Orion's Project

Captain Orion's Project

A rumored site within the Maelstrom's Fury where Captain Orion, a legendary figure, is said to have undertaken a mysterious and ambitious endeavor, potentially linked to the hidden treasure.

Coral Gardens

Coral Gardens

The Coral Gardens are expansive fields of living, vibrant coral reefs, stretching out from the coastline into the shallow waters of the Atoll. The gardens are a mix of natural and magically enhanced reefs, where the flora and fauna are in perfect harmony. Brightly colored corals grow in complex patterns, forming underwater pathways and towering spires. It is a thriving ecosystem teeming with fish, mollusks, and the rare Glowquill Crabs—crustaceans that leave trails of glowing bioluminescence in the water.

Grotto of Shifting Dreams

Grotto of Shifting Dreams

Hidden within a maze of vibrant coral grottos lies the Grotto of Shifting Dreams, a bioluminescent cavern known for its constantly changing currents and illusions. Those who enter experience vivid visions—some calming, some disturbing—depending on their state of mind. Skilled Selarin seers use the Grotto to interpret dreams and visions, offering counsel to those in search of guidance. However, the powerful entity known as The Dreamweaver may demand a steep price for prophetic insight, requiring a piece of one’s soul.

Maelstrom's Fury

Maelstrom's Fury

A legendary ship said to navigate the treacherous waters of the Maelstrom, crewed by some of the toughest sailors in Itharion, and rumored to have a captain seeking assistance for a secretive project.

Maelstrom's Maiden

Maelstrom's Maiden

A legendary sunken ship rumored to be filled with treasures beyond imagination, said to be cursed and guarded by treacherous currents and sea monsters.

Shaman’s Crossing

Shaman’s Crossing

The Shaman’s Crossing is a narrow, precarious pathway that winds through the cliffs of Stormcrag Isle, leading up to the Skyward Temples. The path is often obscured by thick mists, heavy winds, and the constant crackling of electricity in the air, making it a treacherous journey for those not attuned to the island’s violent nature. Only the most seasoned weather shamans or those with divine protection are able to traverse it with any degree of safety.

The Abyssal Chasm

The Abyssal Chasm

The Abyssal Chasm is a fearsome rift in the ocean floor that looms ominously just beyond the shores of Talonis. Many adventurers have met their fate here, drawn by the legends of ancient underwater ruins and treasures lost to the depths. The waters above are often turbulent, churning with dark currents, while strange bioluminescent creatures can be seen darting in and out of the darkness below.

The Abyssal Trench

The Abyssal Trench

The Abyssal Trench is a dark and foreboding underwater chasm, where echoes of ancient secrets pulse through the waters. Adventurers brave enough to explore its depths may uncover sunken treasures or awaken terrible sea creatures. The Black Monoliths stand proudly within the trench, their enigmatic runes weaving an intricate tapestry of mystery and dread.

The Alchemist’s Grove

The Alchemist’s Grove

Hidden in a lush valley between the steep cliffs of Volkrath Isle, the Alchemist’s Grove is a tranquil and magical garden renowned for its rare and potent plants. The volcanic soil of the island nurtures extraordinary species of flora, including plants that can heal wounds, enhance strength, or even slow time. The grove is a paradise for alchemists, herbalists, and potion-makers who come from all corners of Itharion to gather ingredients for their elixirs and concoctions.

The Coral Citadel

The Coral Citadel

The Coral Citadel is a magnificent palace and stronghold built into the living coral reefs of Tidewake Atoll. It serves as the spiritual and political heart of the Atoll, where tribal leaders, scholars, and mages convene to uphold the delicate balance between magical forces and the natural world.

The Crater’s Eye

The Crater’s Eye

At the center of Volkrath Isle, at the very rim of the dormant volcano, lies the Crater's Eye, a serene oasis amidst the rugged terrain. This vast circular pool of crystal-clear water reflects the blue sky above and is encircled by sharp black rock cliffs. The location serves as a sacred site where shamans perform ancient rituals, believed to be connected to the primal forces of earth and fire.

The Crystal Spire of Lumora

The Crystal Spire of Lumora

At the heart of Silaris Reef stands the Crystal Spire of Lumora, a towering, translucent coral structure that reaches up toward the surface like an intricate, natural cathedral. It is said to be the first coral formation created by the ancient sea gods and serves as the sacred temple of the Selarin people. The spire shimmers with an ethereal glow, refracting sunlight from above and moonlight below, filling the surrounding waters with a soft, radiant aura. Visitors can hear a magical hum that reverberates through the spire, believed to be the echo of the sea gods' voices.

The Cursed Archives of Thryssa

The Cursed Archives of Thryssa

Hidden deep within the craggy cliffs of Thryssa’s Fang, the Cursed Archives are a labyrinthine network of vaults and chambers filled with forbidden knowledge and arcane secrets, said to hold the keys to lost magic and dark history. These ancient vaults were once the domain of Itharion’s rulers, designed to keep dangerous knowledge away from the unworthy, leaving only the corrupt to peruse their depths.

The Driftwood Bazaar

The Driftwood Bazaar

The Driftwood Bazaar is the chaotic open-air market that spans across several large rafts, where the sound of haggling and bartering fills the air. Unlike the secretive Smuggler’s Market, the Bazaar is a public space for trade—where everything from exotic foods and drinks to bizarre trinkets can be found. Here, merchants and travelers from across Itharion come to exchange goods, some legal and some not, in a dynamic and vibrant atmosphere.

The Drowned Treasure

The Drowned Treasure

A small, cluttered shop filled with gear and equipment, specializing in treasure hunting and maritime adventures. The shopkeeper is an old Aquari woman known for her vast knowledge of the sea and its secrets.

The Ebon Vaults

The Ebon Vaults

The Ebon Vaults are a shadowy and mysterious part of the Astral Spire, home to the god of Secrets and Shadows, Veyron. The Vaults are a labyrinthine network of darkened chambers, hidden passageways, and ever-shifting walls. In the center of the vault lies the Ebon Throne, where Veyron sits in eternal vigil, his form cloaked in shadows. The air is thick with mystery, and the very walls of the Vaults seem to whisper forgotten knowledge and forbidden truths. The Ebon Vaults house powerful artifacts of shadow and illusion, and those who seek the truth often come to Veyron for guidance.

The Everfall

The Everfall

The Everfall is a mesmerizing and enigmatic location, drawing adventurers with the allure of its bottomless, glowing waterfall. Legends speak of its ethereal waters containing hidden powers that may grant wishes or vengeance to those daring enough to seek them. The currents of the adjoining trench are unpredictable, and many have met their fate in its depths, lured by the waterfall's luminous charm.

The Eye of the Tempest

The Eye of the Tempest

The Eye of the Tempest is a mystical phenomenon located at the center of Stormcrag Isle, where the winds rage and thunder crashes louder than anywhere else on the island. It’s an enormous crater formed by centuries of violent storms, but curiously, within the Eye, there is an unnatural calm—an eerie, almost serene stillness. The skies above are clear, and the winds are still, creating a stark contrast to the wild storm fronts swirling around the perimeter. Sacred to the shamans, this ground is a conduit to the celestial realm of the Storm Lords, where only the most devout may enter for rituals and communion with the tempest spirits.

The Forge of Vranok

The Forge of Vranok

The Forge of Vranok is the celestial forge of the god of War and Creation, Vranok. Located deep within the fiery core of the Astral Spire, this immense forge is surrounded by swirling flames and molten lava. The air is thick with the smell of metal and the sound of hammers striking anvils. Celestial blacksmiths work tirelessly at the forge, crafting weapons, armor, and artifacts of great power. Vranok himself, a towering figure of molten steel and flame, watches over the forge, his eyes burning with the intensity of a thousand suns.

The Gardens of Lurae

The Gardens of Lurae

The Gardens of Lurae are a tranquil and serene paradise dedicated to the goddess of Nature and Healing, Lurae. This sacred garden features an enchanting array of glowing flowers, shimmering pools, and majestic trees whose leaves radiate with a celestial light. It is a place where divine creatures roam freely, allowing both mortals and celestial beings to seek solace, guidance, and rejuvenation.

The Graveyard of Whales

The Graveyard of Whales

The Graveyard of Whales is a hauntingly beautiful site where the skeletal remains of massive sea creatures lie in solemn repose, their enormous bones half-buried in the sandy ocean floor. This eerie landscape is a place of reverence for pirates and sailors alike, often visited for rituals or to pay respects to lost comrades of the sea. Thick fog rolls in from the ocean, shrouding the area in mystery and giving the skeletons an otherworldly presence.

The Guiding Flame

The Guiding Flame

The Guiding Flame is the iconic lighthouse that stands at the highest point of Calithae Isle, a towering structure that rises above the dense jungle and the sparkling lagoons. It serves as the heart of the isle, maintained by skilled Lightkeepers who ensure its magical beacon shines brightly, warding off dark forces and soothing troubled minds. Rumors swirl about the ancient Sunstone hidden beneath the lighthouse, which is believed to control the tides and weather, protected by intricate magical wards. The atmosphere is thick with mystery as the locals speak of a secret portal within the Sanctum, a place where Tidewardens perform rituals to maintain the island’s prosperity, and the Coral Gardens hide a legendary Hidden Reef of immortality.

The Hall of Elders

The Hall of Elders

The Hall of Elders is a grand building made of polished stone and enchanted wood, located at the center of Calithae Isle’s capital city. This is where the ruling council of Itharion, known as the Council of Elders, meets to discuss matters of governance, diplomacy, and magic. The Hall is a marvel of both architecture and magic, with vast columns and arches carved into intricate patterns, and magical symbols that glow softly in the walls. The council chamber itself is circular, with seats for each Elder, and at its center sits the Aetherial Throne, where the highest-ranking Elder presides.

The Lagoon of Reflection

The Lagoon of Reflection

The Lagoon of Reflection is a tranquil and serene place that serves as a spiritual sanctuary for the inhabitants of the Atoll, offering both healing and wisdom to those who seek it. Visitors find solace in its crystalline waters, where the allure of communicating with ocean spirits beckons.

The Moonwell Pools

The Moonwell Pools

The Moonwell Pools are a serene haven where weary travelers and locals alike come to find solace and wisdom. The softly glowing waters reflect the night sky, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. It is a popular pilgrimage site for those seeking guidance from the moon goddess of the tides, and many leave offerings in hopes of receiving visions about their futures.

The Obsidian Forge

The Obsidian Forge

The Obsidian Forge is a legendary blacksmithing site located near the base of Volkrath Isle’s dormant volcano. Skilled artisans use the island’s abundant supply of obsidian and other volcanic minerals to craft weapons, armor, and tools of unparalleled sharpness and strength. The forge is a symbol of the island’s unique connection between nature’s raw power and human craftsmanship, housing the Obsidian Guild and many legendary artifacts.

The Prison of Shattered Souls

The Prison of Shattered Souls

High atop Thryssa’s Fang stands the ruin of the Prison of Shattered Souls, a notorious fortress carved directly into the jagged rock. The structure, now in a state of decay, is a dark testament to Itharion’s brutal treatment of its most dangerous prisoners—those deemed too wicked or cursed to remain among the living. It is said that the souls of the prisoners who perished here linger, their spirits forever bound to the island, echoing in the anguished cries that fill the air.

The Radiant Arch

The Radiant Arch

The Radiant Arch stands as a majestic gateway to the Groves, a vibrant sanctuary where the magic of the ocean comes to life. The air is filled with a faint hum that resonates through the coral formations, believed to be a sign of the ancient magic that binds this place to the sea. Colorful fish dart in and out of the coral, while the gentle sound of waves provides an ever-present symphony of nature.

The Radiant Citadel of Altharion

The Radiant Citadel of Altharion

The Radiant Citadel of Altharion is the seat of the god of Light and Justice, Altharion. This towering palace is made of living crystal that pulses with the divine light of the sun, casting brilliant rays across the entire realm. Within the citadel, grand halls echo with the sound of celestial music, and golden statues of past heroes stand guard at every turn. The throne room itself is a vast, open chamber where Altharion, ever regal, sits on a throne forged from the heart of a dying star.

The Sapphire Lagoon

The Sapphire Lagoon

The Sapphire Lagoon is a serene and idyllic body of water nestled between Calithae Isle’s verdant cliffs. Known for its stunning deep blue waters, it reflects the sky above like a perfect mirror. This picturesque spot offers a peaceful escape and is the site of important rituals and shrines dedicated to ocean deities, where visitors seek blessings from the moon goddess during the Rite of the Blue Moon.

The Shifting Docks

The Shifting Docks

The Shifting Docks are an ever-changing collection of interconnected rafts, boat ramps, and sunken ships that serve as the island’s primary docking area for incoming vessels. Due to the unstable nature of Driftwood Haven’s floating infrastructure, the docks are in constant flux—what was once a safe berth for a ship may soon be a treacherous mess of debris. Despite this, it’s the lifeblood of trade, with ships coming and going at all hours, unloading cargo, passengers, and secrets.

The Skull’s Mouth Cave

The Skull’s Mouth Cave

On the southwestern coast of Thryssa’s Fang, The Skull’s Mouth Cave is a haunting landmark with a history steeped in darkness. Known for swallowing ships whole during high tide, this location carries the whispers of long-dead sailors and legends of treasures hidden within its flooded chambers.

The Skyward Temples of Thal’Azar

The Skyward Temples of Thal’Azar

The Skyward Temples of Thal’Azar are a sacred site where shamans commune with elemental deities and harness the raw power of storms. These towering structures form the heart of Stormcrag Isle’s spiritual life, holding both great power and deep peril.

The Smuggler’s Market

The Smuggler’s Market

Hidden deep within the twisting maze of rafts and shipwrecks, the Smuggler’s Market is an underground bazaar where anything can be bought or sold—provided you have the right connections. It is a labyrinth of ramshackle stalls, dimly lit by lanterns, with merchants offering rare, dangerous, or forbidden items: contraband from distant lands, magical artifacts of questionable origin, and items that are considered too illegal or controversial to trade anywhere else.

The Starcatcher’s Perch

The Starcatcher’s Perch

The Starcatcher’s Perch is a unique tower that rises high above the waves, its walls adorned with vibrant, bioluminescent patterns that mimic the constellations above. Inside, the air is thick with the scent of sea salt and ancient scrolls as aspiring Tideweavers learn the art of manipulating the ocean's currents and starlight. The students often gather around intricate glass orbs filled with swirling colors, exchanging knowledge and dreams of their future adventures at sea.

The Sunken Markets of Aqualore

The Sunken Markets of Aqualore

Beneath the glowing reefs lies Aqualore, the bustling underwater market district of Silaris Reef. The city is a labyrinth of intricately carved coral tunnels, supported by massive arches of living reef, with vibrant stalls hanging from the ceiling and merchants plying their goods in the flowing currents. Exotic sea plants, shimmering pearls, and even enchanted items like water-breathing amulets and tide-charming trinkets can be found here.

The Tempest Forge

The Tempest Forge

The Tempest Forge is an ancient forge located at the edge of Stormcrag Isle, where the storm itself fuels the creation of powerful artifacts. The forge is surrounded by cracked stone pillars and storm-battered iron structures, but within, the heart of the forge is alive with electricity. Strikes of lightning frequently hit the forge, allowing the molten metal within to be shaped by the very power of the tempest. Weather shamans craft enchanted Tempestblades here, and rumors suggest a hidden chamber may contain the legendary Stormblade, capable of commanding the winds.

The Tempest Gate

The Tempest Gate

A colossal stone archway stands precariously on the jagged cliffs of Thryssa’s Fang, battered by wind and sea. Known as the Tempest Gate, this ancient structure is rumored to be a relic of an older, forgotten age. The arch is etched with runes of power, worn and faded by the ravages of time, and it seems to hum with a strange energy, as if it is a portal to something far greater than the island itself.

The Terraced Gardens of Toraea

The Terraced Gardens of Toraea

The Terraced Gardens of Toraea are a breathtaking oasis on Calithae Isle, renowned for their cultural significance and enchanting beauty. Each of the multi-leveled gardens features diverse ecosystems that attract visitors seeking meditation, inspiration, or a moment of peace away from the city's hustle and bustle. With their vibrant flora, these gardens serve as a hub for the study of magical plants, and special festivals celebrating the seasons fill the air with joy and celebration.

The Trench of Silent Songs

The Trench of Silent Songs

The Trench of Silent Songs is a deep and mysterious rift that runs through the southern part of Silaris Reef. This trench is shrouded in darkness and silence, often avoided by the vibrant reef life. It serves as an ancient burial ground for the Selarin ancestors, where the souls remain, their voices forever silenced. The trench is both feared and revered by the Selarin, who conduct ceremonies at its edge to honor their ancestors. On rare nights, the waters become still, and an eerie melody known as the 'Silent Song' rises from its depths, capturing the attention of those nearby.

The Veiled Cathedral

The Veiled Cathedral

The Veiled Cathedral is an enormous, sunken structure of unknown origin, cloaked in mystery and intrigue. Its ancient halls resonate with an eerie ambiance, said to be filled with whispers from another time, echoing tales of lost sailors and forgotten deities. Adventurers who dare to explore this ghostly landmark often speak of strange phenomena occurring within its shadowy alcoves.

The Whispering Pools

The Whispering Pools

Nestled within a vibrant coral reef, The Whispering Pools are mysterious bodies of water that shimmer with ethereal light. Locals believe that anyone who peers into these serene depths may catch fleeting visions of their future, making them a coveted spot for fortune-seekers and those looking to unravel their destiny.

The Whispering Tavern

The Whispering Tavern

The Whispering Tavern is a small, dimly lit establishment located on a quiet raft tucked away in a secluded corner of Driftwood Haven. Its patrons are a mix of traders, pirates, adventurers, and spies, each seeking to make deals in private or gather information in hushed tones. The tavern’s name comes from the peculiar acoustics of the place—voices seem to carry and echo in ways that make it impossible to tell who is speaking, creating an eerie, disorienting atmosphere. It’s also famous for being the go-to spot for those who need to discuss matters in secrecy, making high-profile deals and political schemes thrive within its walls.

Tidewake Sanctum

Tidewake Sanctum

The Tidewake Sanctum is a hidden cavern of immense arcane significance, where the Tidewardens perform their sacred rituals to uphold the delicate balance of the ocean's magic. This secluded sanctuary, shielded from prying eyes, is a blend of deep mystical study and awe-inspiring natural beauty. Within its luminous walls, ancient secrets await, both perilous and profound. Rumors circle around its depths, hinting at a portal to the Abyss and the presence of a coveted Hidden Reef that promises immortality — if one can brave the dangers that guard it.

This work includes material taken from the System Reference Document 5.1 (“SRD 5.1”) by Wizards of the Coast LLC . The SRD 5.1 is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
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